Documentary teaches about ugliness of war

By Ian Coe Smith, News Writing Student

OCCC students attended a showing of “Why We Fight,” a popular documentary film by Eugene Jarecki.

The OCCC Advocates of Peace Club and the College Democrats hosted the viewing to a small audience Nov. 29.

The film asks questions regarding the American military and how it is used by the government in present day warfare.

“Why We Fight” digs deep into World War II, the Vietnam War and the current war in Iraq, and appears to be against President Bush’s use of the military.

The film portrays America as a power-hungry country that intends to spread democracy all over the world.

The film uses the current War in Iraq and other post-9/11 examples, such as issues in North Korea and Iran, to illustrate its views.

Students and faculty also expressed their own views in response.

Psychology major Yareni Alvarado said the film made her question the ethics of modern warfare.

“People don’t know the reality of warfare,” she said, in regard to the violent images the film showed.

Stephen Morrow, Advocates of Peace sponsor, said, “The film raises good questions about the U.S. being a strong military country.

“True education means having the opportunity to share and discuss ideas,” Morrow said. “Without [student] groups, OCCC wouldn’t have a real college.”